Dauphin County (PA) Redevelopment Authority

Harrisburg,

Multi-Use Sports Complex Feasibility Analysis

In 2012, the Dauphin County Redevelopment Authority retained B&D to conduct a planning study for a new multi-use sports complex in Dauphin County. We were tasked with developing a project concept from a blank canvas intended to cater to all Dauphin County constituent groups, provide a place for the County’s citizens to congregate, and create economic benefit for County residents and businesses. On the basis of these goals, to determine the most appropriate project concept, we conducted a detailed market analysis that evaluated local demographic characteristics such as raw population, growth trends, market wealth, and consumer spending tendencies; stakeholder interviews with business leaders and sports and recreation personnel to determine interest in various program components and desired facility amenities; the identification of several national facilities in comparable markets; a demand analysis quantifying hours of demand for various facility components; and a preliminary program, a budget, and financial projections determining potential capital costs and expected financial performance.

Phase 1 findings resulted in a preliminary project concept that included several outdoor rectangle fields and a clover of diamonds, as well as a potential indoor Fieldhouse. The program developed in Phase 1 served as the basis for conducting Phase 2, which included community focus groups, a development schedule for implementation, creation of a funding structure, and identification of the proper operational model for County constituent needs.

Brailsford & Dunlavey

is a national program management firm offering innovative program management services, from strategic planning through implementation.